Brown pelicans are large coastal seabirds found along the coasts of North and South America. They are known for their large throat pouches that they use to scoop up fish while diving. But how rare are these iconic birds? Brown Pelican Population Brown pelicans were once endangered, but have made a remarkable recovery in recent decades. In 1970, there were only around 1,200 breeding pairs of brown pelicans left in the United States due to pesticide poisoning and over-hunting. But after the banning of DDT and protections under the Endangered Species Act, their populations rebounded. Today, there are estimated to…
Author: Peter Knight
Wild turkeys are known for their elaborate courtship displays involving fanning out their tail feathers, puffing out their body feathers, strutting, and making gobbling sounds. These displays play an important role in wild turkey mating rituals and communication. Understanding why turkeys engage in these behaviors can provide insight into their biology and behavior. What is a turkey display? Turkey displays are the postures, vocalizations, and behaviors that turkeys use to attract mates and communicate with other turkeys. The most recognizable turkey displays involve: Strutting – Male turkeys strut by walking in an exaggerated fashion with their chest puffed out and…
Quick Answers Bluebirds are cavity nesters that often return to the same nesting site year after year. While there are some good reasons to remove old nests, such as preventing parasites or opening up the cavity for a new nest, retaining old nests can also benefit bluebirds. Leaving last year’s nest provides insulation and structure for new eggs and may encourage returning pairs to reuse the cavity. Consider monitoring the nest to ensure pests like house sparrows don’t take over before removing an old bluebird nest. Bluebirds are beloved songbirds that add color and vitality to backyards across North America.…
Duck calls have been used by hunters for centuries to attract ducks during hunting season. An effective duck call can lure ducks from miles away if it accurately mimics the sounds of actual ducks. But with so many duck call brands and models on the market, how do you know which one sounds the most realistic? What Makes a Realistic Sounding Duck Call? There are a few key factors that contribute to a duck call sounding realistic: Material – Most quality duck calls are made from wood, acrylic, polycarbonate, or metal. Each material has different acoustic properties that affect the…
Sandhill cranes are large birds that migrate through Arizona each year on their way between their summer nesting grounds in the north and their wintering areas farther south. Determining how long sandhill cranes stay in Arizona during their annual migrations depends on the specific subspecies and population of crane. Overall, sandhill cranes may be found in parts of Arizona for anywhere from a few weeks up to 5 months out of the year. Sandhill Crane Natural History There are six subspecies of sandhill crane recognized in North America: the Greater, Lesser, Canadian, Mississippi, Florida, and Cuban sandhill cranes. Sandhill cranes…
Quick Answer It depends. There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether or not to feed a baby bird in the nest: – What type of bird is it? Some species do well with supplemental feeding by humans while others do not. Robins and mourning doves tend to tolerate feeding better than finches or hummingbirds. – How old is the baby bird? If it is newborn, it is best not to interfere. If it is fully feathered and alert, cautiously offering food may help. – Is the mother still feeding it? If so, additional feeding is usually not…
Quick Answers The Common Ground-Dove is a small bird found in the southern United States, parts of Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. While it may be possible to eat this bird, there are some important considerations to keep in mind: Legality – Hunting, catching, and consuming the Common Ground-Dove may be prohibited or regulated in certain areas. Safety – As with any wild animal, proper handling and cooking is necessary to avoid contamination or illness. Taste – Flavor and texture may not be desirable compared to poultry or other game birds. Availability – The Common Ground-Dove has a large…
The Golden Eagle fogger is a powerful fogging machine used for applying pesticides and insecticides over large areas. It has become an essential tool for pest control operators and agricultural workers looking to efficiently treat crops, trees, lawns, and other landscaping against damaging pests. When it comes to powering such an important piece of equipment, having the right fuel is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Gasoline vs Diesel vs Other Fuels There are a few common options when it comes to fueling foggers like the Golden Eagle: Gasoline – Standard automotive gasoline can be used to power many smaller…
Bird watching, also known as birding, is a popular hobby that involves observing wild birds in their natural habitats. Some bird watchers simply enjoy seeing different species, while others take it more seriously and try to document as many species as possible. The best time and place to go birding depends on a variety of factors, including the climate and geographic location, and the types of birds you want to see. The months of April through June tend to be the best time for bird watching overall in most of North America, when resident birds are mating and nesting and…
The ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) is a small, stifftailed duck that is native to North America. The males are known for their bright blue bills that stand out against their chestnut colored body. But this vibrant blue coloring doesn’t appear until the end of their first year. So how does the ruddy duck’s dull gray bill transform into a brilliant blue? The Blue Bill of the Male Ruddy Duck During the breeding season, male ruddy ducks develop a bright blue bill that is a conspicuous badge of their maleness. This is in stark contrast to the female’s dull gray bill.…